Marist St. Josephs Sports Club hosted a farewell luncheon for the outgoing High Commissioner of New Zealand to Samoa, David Nicholson.

The luncheon acknowledged the strong development partnership between the club and the High Commission on youth and sports development.

Led by Club President, Faimalomatumua Mathew Lemisio and Marist Old Boys President, Tuatagaloa Ming Leung Wai, Marist expressed its appreciation for New Zealand’s support towards Marist International Sports Week 2018, which made it possible for the attendance of international referees and officials for Touch and Rugby tournament earlier this year.

“Our local referees and coaches were beneficiaries of workshops led by these officials as well as the quality of tournaments boosted by renowned internationals such as Seiuli Fiaoo Faamausili, Captain of NZ Black Ferns that won the most recent Women’s Rugby World Cup,” a statement said.

A highlight for Marist this year was the opportunity to host the New Zealand Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern and Foreign Minister, Vaovasamanaia Winston Peters.

This, according to the press statement, was a chance of a lifetime for primary and high school students to be inspired by a foreign state leader as well as their youth on successful pathways for career and sports. Marist and New Zealand have established a close alliance to develop youth and tackle important issues they face such as unemployment and career advice.

Mr. Nicholson played a crucial role in fostering this partnership to what it has successfully achieved to date.

Mr. Nicholson resigned from the post last week citing personal reasons. This is his last week in the role. He will be replaced by former High Commissioner to Samoa, Nick Hurley.